NFL Free Agency 2011: Seattle Seahawks Offense Ready to Explode

The Seahawks and head coach Pete Carroll may not be getting much attention this offseason, but they are primed to break away from the pack in the NFC West.

Although the Seahawks somehow won their division last season and made the playoffs, anyone who watches the NFL knows that they were not a team flush with playoff-caliber players. In Pete Carroll's second offseason in Seattle, he is starting to make his presence felt in the northwest.

The Seahawks made it a point this offseason to improve the offense. Seattle used its first round pick on OL James Carpenter (Alabama) and its third round pick on OL John Moffitt (Wisconsin). Both players are big bodies and will be a part of the rebuilt Seahawks offensive line.

In addition to the offensive line, the Seahawks have actively pursued to upgrade their passing game, which was abysmal at times last season. QB Matt Hasselbeck is gone and will be replaced by Minnesota castoff Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson is likely just holding the torch until the team can find a long-term option at the position.

Now for the big moves. Carroll used his excellent recruiting skills to lure WR Sidney Rice from the Vikings, signing him to a multi-year deal. Although there are concerns about his health (hip surgery), Rice can be an impact player and gives the Seahawks a true number one WR, something they have been lacking for some time. Next, Seattle went and swiped TE Zach Miller away from the Oakland Raiders. Miller is an emerging star at the tight end position. He will be an invaluable safety valve for whoever is under center for the Seahawks this year.

Keep in mind that the 'Hawks still have wide receivers Mike Williams and Golden Tate. Adding Miller and Rice to that mix could make this group extremely explosive in the near future.

The weapons are now in place. All Coach Carroll and the Seahawks need is a marquee quarterback. Next year's draft could be the place to find one. Former Carroll and USC recruit Matt Barkley and Stanford's Andrew Luck may be available.

Once the Seahawks find a quarterback, the offensive fireworks will begin.